Keep the source behind the story.

Start with an unchanged original.

For your own organization, keep the original file or export separately from any marked-up copy. If you highlight, crop or annotate something for review, label it as a working copy and retain the unchanged source.

For messages, keep available surrounding context and identify participants and dates. A screenshot may be useful, but it can omit information. Note whether your source is a screenshot, a full export, an attachment or a recollection. Do not describe a partial record as a complete conversation.

Give each source a place in an index.

1. Assign a simple reference such as E-001. This is your internal reference, not a court-assigned exhibit number.
2. Record the original filename, file type, event date and the date you obtained it.
3. Describe where it came from and whether it is an original, export or working copy.
4. Link it to the relevant timeline entry and briefly explain what it shows.
5. Record limitations: missing pages, an uncertain date, incomplete context or an unverified sender.

An index should help you find the file.

Use filenames and descriptions that identify the material without making an accusation. A file reference helps organization; it is not a finding about the material’s authenticity or meaning.

Share the minimum needed for the purpose.

Keep family records out of public posts and examples. Before sharing a copy with an intended recipient, check that it contains the intended files and consider whether private information unrelated to the task is included. Keep the original separate from any redacted sharing copy.

A private record and a court filing are different uses. Get the applicable court instructions or professional guidance before filing or redacting documents. This guide does not tell you what must be disclosed or what may be withheld.

Check the instructions before submitting.

California Courts provides separate guidance on supporting documents, witness statements, filing and service for family law hearings. Use the official reference below for procedural information. The DAD/NPG index is an organization tool and does not replace those steps. [1]

Ask the court’s self-help center or your lawyer about requirements for your particular hearing. Do not assume that uploading a file here sends it to a court, serves another party, or makes it admissible.